Famciclovir is an antiviral drug. It slows the growth and spread of the herpes virus so that the body can fight off the infection. Famciclovir will not cure herpes, but it can lessen the symptoms of the infections. Famciclovir is used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses, including genital herpes, cold sores, and shingles. There is no cure for herpes and famciclovir will not prevent you from developing symptoms in the future. Famciclovir may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Famvir is an antiviral drug that prevents viruses from multiplying their genetic material hence resulting in virus level drop in the blood. Famvir is used to control viral infections such as genital herpes, shingles, cold sores, as well as mucocutaneous herpes in HIV-infected people.